Concrete Counters, Solar Panels and Stainless Steel...

Lots of different materials are being used in new and remodeled homes these days.  With them, come new home repair and maintenance guidelines.  The Oregonian's Homes and Gardens section recently had some good tips.

Limestone and Marble: Acid and grit are the biggest threats to these surfaces, so you might consider sealing them.  Use mild cleansers such as a soap stone cleaner or liquid dish detergent, but go easy.  And avoid cleansers with abrasives, or containing lemon, vinegar or other acids.

Vinyl Windows: Inspect these regularly and clean the window tracks.  Don't use abrasives and never lubricate with WD-40, use a silicone spray instead.

Crawl Spaces and Attics:  Over the years these spaces are sealed tighter and tighter. What used to be a part of your home's ventilation system may no longer be.  You'll want to make extra sure no moisture or water is building up, that will lead to mold.

Hardie Plank/Fiber Cement Siding: Lots of homes are sided with these products, which hold up very well in the Pacific Northwest climate.  But the joints and contact points with windows and trim do need to be caulked regularly to prevent water from getting behind the siding.

Stainless Steel: I love how this stuff looks, and it can be easy to clean, but boy, fingerprints and cooking splatters really show up.  Stainless steel cleansers and polish can help make a barrier against such things.  3M makes a decent product.

Composite Decking:  This stuff is WAY easier to maintain than wood decking, but does need a bit of tending to.  Sweep or hose debris off regularly, and wash at least once a year to prevent mold and mildew.  Power washing may not be a goo idea, and can void some warranties.

Concrete Counter Tops:  Wipe up spills as soon as they occur, use a light dish soap or detergent to clean, and avoid harsh chemicals, such as bleach.  Some consider using a wax to build up a protective film over time, which will create a slick, smooth, easy-to-clean surface. If your countertop begins to show signs of wear and dulling, reapply an additional coat of wax.

Solar Panels: While these don't NEED any real maintenance, a layer of dust and debris can diminish the productivity of your solar panels.  A spray with the hose a few times a year can really help.

Do you have some other tips for maintaining materials around your house?  Please send them my way.